A Broward divided
The Broward River community, like the nation, is divided. Not only is there a division of water flow along the south bank vs the north bank, there is a natural division of diverse wildlife in the variety of birds. Some diversity is due to seasonal changes with migrations, others are more geographic depending on the tides and water depths. The marsh birds pictured below are year round residents and divided between Blue Herons and White Egrets. There are three species of Blue Herons (Great Blue, Little Blue, and Tricolored) and three species of White Egrets (Snowy, Great, and Cattle). There is also the occasional Wood Stork. Two species of Night Herons, the Yellow-crowned and Black-crowned round out the regulars.
Fall and winter bring flocks of raucous crows with distinct “Jersey” accents. Spring and summer are refreshing with small flocks of pink Roseate Spoonbills. “George” the Yellow-crowned Night Heron prefers spring and summer following the crabs, its favorite food. Winter brings special visitors to the area like the Editor’s favorite Pied-billed Grebes and occasional diving ducks like the Hooded Mergansers. I have not seen the latter two duck species yet but am keeping an eye out for them. The Cormorants and Anhinga are migratory being seen more in the fall and winter months. The Belted Kingfishers are only here in fall and winter and are one of the most challenging to photograph. The raptors are mainly Osprey and Red-shouldered and Red-tailed Hawks and an occasional Bald Eagle which mainly hunts near the mouth of the Broward. Flocks of immature and adult White Ibis also visit the area during fall and winter migrations.
Fortunately, the division and diversity on the Broward is natural and predictable. There are no political debates and only the occasional territorial squabble over a favorite fishing hole or piling to perch on. Unfortunately, the politics dividing this nation are much more severe and becoming more polarizing. However, these things were foretold long ago. Fear not. I read the last chapter and know who wins.
A Veterans Day Salute to all who served past and present and especially to those who gave their all that we would remain a United States of America
Tricolored Heron stakes out his favorite morning perch piling.
Broward Bob the Little Blue Heron has his favorite piling also..
Anyone for a spider snack?
Now that was a real foot stomper!
Old Man River, the Great Blue Heron in a rare fly by opportunity
Snowy Egret in flight
Snowy Egret itching to start the day
This is my piling. Get lost Mr Doohickey!
Snowy Flurry fly by..
Cattle Egrets are year round residents but rarely stop by the dock.
The ever graceful Great Egret surveys the fishing lagoon for minnows.